May 17, 2017 10:48:20 AM

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Kalamazoo Public Library Director Ann Rohrbaugh will be retiring on June 30. A new director is expected to be named in late May and begin early July.

Originally from Pennsylvania, Ann Rohrbaugh came to Kalamazoo to attend graduate school in library science at Western Michigan University. She took a part-time job at Kalamazoo Public Library and never left. Upon graduation, Rohrbaugh became a reference librarian, moved on to serve many administrative positions, and was assistant director before being hired as director in 2005.

During her time at Kalamazoo Public Library, Rohrbaugh served on the building committee as assistant director which oversaw the renovation of Central Library, Alma Powell and Washington Square Branch Libraries, as well as the construction of the Oshtemo and Eastwood Branch Libraries. As director, she led a strategic planning process that set library priorities for the past six years. During the recession of 2008, Rohrbaugh implemented cost-saving changes to library services, including reduction of staff by 10% through retirements and attrition, and most notably, the cancellation of the bookmobile service. These changes enabled Kalamazoo Public Library to keep all five locations open for business.

“I have had a wonderful career here at Kalamazoo Public Library,” says Rohrbaugh. “It has been an honor to work with a dedicated staff that are passionate about our services and truly want to make a difference in our community. Our governing boards over the years have shown equal passion for the library and its place in the community. And finally, but most importantly, I have appreciated the support of the community that has continued to prioritize their local library as an essential service by voting for the passage of millages, participating in our programs and using our services.”

While Ann Rohrbaugh is ready to move on to the next chapter, she will return to Kalamazoo Public Library often, however, as a frequent patron.

Comments

Thank you, Ann! KPL is a wonderful library and a huge asset to the city. Having worked at KPL for several years, I can affirm that the staff members are creative, conscientious, and dedicated to fulfilling the Library's mission.
You've been an amazing director and will be missed!
Enjoy this new phase of your career - Carol Smith

By Carol Smith, 05/17/2017

Ann,
Your a lovely person. The library world will miss your kindness and willingness to help everyone. However, do enjoy your retirement and go a little wild.